According to Il Messaggero, Shanghai Shenhua winger Stephan El Shaarawy fancies a move back to Roma despite links with Arsenal.
Reports broke on Thursday evening that Arsenal wanted El Shaarawy, with Gianluca Di Marzio reporting that contact had been made with the Gunners.
Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are thought to be keen too, but it seems that his preference is to re-join Roma.
It’s stated that El Shaarawy fancies heading back to the Italian capital, but he is facing something of a wait to make the move.
Roma allegedly need to offload Diego Perotti first, as he has offers from Spartak Moscow and Fenerbahce – but is yet to decide on an exit.
Roma can take El Shaarawy ‘on a free loan until January’, and he is keen to make the move, but Arsenal and co would still have a chance if Perrotti doesn’t go.
27-year-old El Shaarawy spent three-and-a-half years at Roma, scoring 40 times in 139 games for the club before heading to Shanghai Shenhua last summer.
El Shaarawy could end up back at Roma already, but if Arsenal do want a left-winger who can cut in on his right foot, then El Shaarawy could be an option.
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